The Altofonte park was created at the behest of Roger II and was located south-west of Palermo, in woodland areas. Before long, the park was also equipped with a palace that was used as a royal residence during hunting trips. The palace was strategically located, almost dominating the Conca d’Oro and the Gulf of Palermo. In his Chronicles and Annals, written around 1170, Romuald, archbishop of Salerno, describes the Altofonte park as a pleasant place shaded by trees, rich in vegetation, animals and springs.
